Home›Art & Drawing›How to paint courses›Watercolour Painting Improvers Watercolour Painting Improvers BOOK NOW DETAILS BOOKING & TIMETABLE VENUES TUTORS This course is designed for students who have a basic understanding of watercolour techniques and want to take their skills to the next level. You'll improve control, and explore more advanced skills such as refining your technique in working wet on dry, wet on wet, and in glazing. Each week builds on key principles such as blending, layering, and adding texture, as well as exploring successful composition and design, allowing students to create more refined and expressive watercolour paintings. Through guided exercises, students will also explore how to capture light, shadow, and atmosphere effectively, adding subtlety and complexity to their work. The course is structured to offer both technical instruction and creative exploration, ensuring that students grow both artistically and confidently with the medium. With a combination of quick studio exercises and more challenging compositions, such as portraiture and botanicals, you will leave with a deeper understanding of watercolour painting and a folio of accomplished works. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN In our Watercolour Improvers course, you will cover: Watercolour techniques, including layering, glazing, and brushwork How to control wet-on-wet methods for expressive, intentional effects Colour mixing strategies for mood and atmosphere How to add depth, detail, and texture to landscapes, seascapes and cityscapes Innovative and experimental approaches to watercolour painting How to make confident, deliberate artistic decisions Techniques for refining and developing your personal style How to build a cohesive body of work that demonstrates your growth and creativity BENEFITS OF TAKING THIS COURSE This course is ideal for those ready to move beyond the basics and grow as confident, expressive watercolour artists. You’ll explore a range of techniques designed to enhance your control, creativity, and personal style, all within a supportive and inspiring environment. With expert guidance and practical exercises, you'll be encouraged to push boundaries, experiment with new approaches, and make intentional artistic choices. Whether you're developing moody seascapes or atmospheric city scenes, the course will help you deepen your technical skill and artistic voice. By the end, you'll have a portfolio of refined, expressive works and the tools to continue your practice with clarity and confidence. COURSE CONTENT BREAKDOWN: TECHNIQUES AND FOCUS AREAS 1 Advanced Brushwork & Control Refining line, stroke, and pressure for precision and expression Using different brushes for varied effects Combining dry and wet techniques in a single composition 2 Layering & Glazing Understanding timing between layers Building depth and vibrancy through transparent washes Controlling tone, saturation, and light 3 Light & Shadow Refining your palette with more nuanced tones Using colour to create mood and emotion Balancing complementary and analogous schemes 4 Light & Shadow Creating realistic or dramatic lighting effects Understanding light sources and shadow placement Developing contrast for depth and structure 5 Wet-on-Wet & Texture Techniques Creating soft blends and atmospheric transitions Using salt, sponges, and resist for visual interest Experimenting with granulation and bloom effects 6 Composition & Subject Variety Composing strong, balanced images Working from reference and observation Exploring landscapes, florals, animals, and portraits 7 Personal Style & Self-Expression Identifying and developing your artistic voice Choosing colours, techniques, and subjects that reflect your personality Balancing skill-building with creative exploration 8 Final Projects & Portfolio Building Planning and completing finished watercolour artworks Reflecting on progress and technical development Preparing a mini-portfolio of your best work YOUR ART SUPPLIES City Academy's art studio has everything you need to get creative. All materials, including paper, brushes and other art supplies, will be provided. BENEFITS OF ART CLASSES Browse Courses You can filter Courses by month and tutor Month All Months Tutor All Tutors Joseph Bucklow Date Day Time (BST) Duration Tutor Venue Price Booking 07 Sep 2026 - 05 Oct 2026 Mon 18:30-21:00 5 weeks Joseph Bucklow City Academy, Farringdon £225.00 Book Now 07 Sep 07 Sep 2026 - 05 Oct 2026 £225.00 Day:Mon Time:18:30-21:00 Duration:5 weeks Tutor: Joseph Bucklow Venue: City Academy, Farringdon BOOK NOW GIFT THIS COURSE × Select your Entry Level: -Select- Leader Follower Book Now Close ADD ME TO THE WAITING LIST If you'd like to be added to the waiting list for 'Watercolour Painting Improvers' fill in the form below and we will contact you if a space becomes available. First Name * Last Name * Email * Phone Number * City Academy, Farringdon Closest Station: Farringdon Closest Bus Stop: Hatton Garden View Details Get Directions All City Academy tutors are experienced professionals from theatre, film/TV and performance industries. So whilst they're training you they may also be rehearsing for a West End show or working on a movie. We like that and we do believe it makes a difference in class. Joseph Bucklow View Profile